At a glance
- Cane Corsos face a 15-20% risk of ear infections due to their large, floppy ears that trap moisture and debris
- Weekly ear cleaning with veterinary-approved solutions prevents most infections before they start
- Drying ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing eliminates the warm, moist environment bacteria love
- Managing underlying allergies through diet and supplements can stop the cycle of recurring infections
Why your dog's ear shape matters
You might notice your Cane Corso shaking their head more often after a swim or a romp through wet grass. Those beautiful, pendulous ears that give the breed such an expressive look also create the perfect storm for ear problems. Unlike breeds with upright ears that allow air to circulate freely, your dog's ear flaps act like little greenhouses, trapping warmth and moisture inside the ear canal.
Research shows that this anatomical feature puts these dogs at significantly higher risk than their pointy-eared cousins. The warm, humid environment under those ear flaps becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. Add in their love of outdoor activities and water, and you can see why ear infections affect 15-20% of the breed at some point in their lives.
Many owners don't realise that even something as simple as a bath can set the stage for problems. Water that would naturally drain from upright ears gets trapped, creating conditions that can lead to otitis externa within just a few days.
Recognising the early warning signs
Have you wondered why your dog suddenly seems obsessed with scratching at their ears? The early signs of ear trouble often start subtly. You might first notice your Cane Corso tilting their head to one side or shaking it more frequently than usual. These behaviours often appear days before the more obvious symptoms develop.
Watch for these telltale signs that indicate it's time for closer inspection. Frequent scratching or pawing at the ears usually signals discomfort, even when you can't yet see visible changes. A foul odour emanating from the ears often appears before discharge becomes noticeable. When you do see redness, swelling, or any yellow, brown, or bloody discharge, the infection has likely progressed beyond the earliest stages.
Pain or sensitivity when the ears are touched can indicate the infection is causing significant discomfort. In severe cases, you might notice your dog becoming lethargic or irritable, signs that the infection may be affecting their overall wellbeing.
The most effective prevention strategies
Regular ear cleaning forms the cornerstone of prevention, and the technique matters as much as the frequency. Clean your dog's ears once weekly using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution. Products like Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner or PetMD Ear Wipes have proven effective for most dogs, though your vet might recommend something specific based on your dog's needs.
The cleaning process itself is straightforward but requires gentle handling. Fill the ear canal with the cleaning solution, then gently massage the base of the ear for 20-30 seconds. Allow your dog to shake out the excess fluid naturally, then wipe away any visible debris with gauze or a soft cloth. Never insert cotton swabs deep into the ear canal, as this can push debris further in or damage delicate tissues.
Water exposure requires immediate attention. After swimming, bathing, or even a walk in heavy rain, dry your dog's ears thoroughly using a soft, absorbent towel. Some veterinarians recommend using a specialised ear-drying solution like Oti-Clens after water activities, particularly for dogs with a history of infections.
Managing allergies to prevent recurring problems
Sometimes the root cause lies deeper than simple moisture buildup. Allergies, whether food-related or environmental, can create chronic inflammation that makes ears more susceptible to infection. Many Cane Corsos with recurring ear problems actually have underlying allergic conditions that need addressing.
If your dog experiences frequent ear infections, consider discussing an elimination diet with your veterinarian to identify potential food triggers. Common culprits include beef, chicken, wheat, and dairy products. Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mould can also contribute to chronic ear inflammation. Spotting signs of allergies in your Cane Corso early can help prevent these recurring ear problems.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can help reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil or dedicated canine omega-3 supplements, typically costing $15-30, may help break the cycle of recurring infections when used consistently over several months.
Professional grooming and maintenance
Proper grooming around the ears can significantly improve air circulation and reduce debris accumulation. Excess hair around the ear canal should be trimmed regularly, though this requires careful technique to avoid irritation. Ask your veterinarian or professional groomer to demonstrate safe ear hair management during your next visit.
Some dogs benefit from ear-drying powder, particularly those prone to moisture-related infections. Products like Epi-Otic Ear Powder can help absorb excess moisture, though they should only be used under veterinary guidance.
Never attempt aggressive ear hair plucking, as this can cause micro-injuries that actually increase infection risk. Gentle trimming with proper scissors or clippers proves much safer and equally effective.
When to seek veterinary care
Despite your best prevention efforts, infections can still occur. Seek veterinary attention promptly if your dog shows signs of pain, significant swelling, or discharge from the ears. Symptoms that don't improve within 2-3 days of home cleaning also warrant professional evaluation.
Recurring infections, defined as more than 2-3 episodes per year, often indicate underlying issues that require investigation. Your veterinarian might recommend allergy testing, thyroid function tests, or other diagnostics to identify contributing factors.
Treatment typically involves medicated ear drops containing antibacterial, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory ingredients. Severe infections might require oral medications alongside topical treatments. Never use over-the-counter human medications or home remedies without veterinary approval, as these can worsen the condition or mask important symptoms.
Building a sustainable ear care routine
Success comes from consistency rather than perfection. Establish a weekly ear-cleaning routine that fits naturally into your grooming schedule. Most dogs accept ear cleaning more readily when it becomes a predictable part of their care routine.
Keep your cleaning supplies easily accessible and check expiration dates regularly. Quality ear cleaning solutions typically cost $12-25 and last several months with weekly use. Consider this a worthwhile investment compared to the cost and discomfort of treating recurring infections.
Remember that prevention proves far more effective and less stressful than treatment. Regular veterinary check-ups allow early detection of problems and provide opportunities to refine your home care routine based on your dog's specific needs.
